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Detailed Comparison

Mattermost vs Element

A comprehensive comparison to help you decide if Element is the right EU alternative to Mattermost for your needs.

US-based (CLOUD Act applies)
Mattermost logo

Mattermost

🇺🇸Mattermost

Accelerate your mission critical workflow by integrating people, processes, tools and AI infrastructure on a resilient and adaptable platform.

EU-based (GDPR Protected)
Element logo

Element

🌍Element

Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections.

freemiumRecommended

Our Verdict

Why choose Element

  • +Element uses the Matrix protocol for broader interoperability.
  • +End-to-end encryption is enabled by default on all Element plans.
  • +Element supports group chats with up to 1000 members, larger than Mattermost.
  • +Element's open-source nature allows for community-driven improvements.

Things to consider

  • -Migration from Mattermost may require significant data transfer effort.
  • -Element's user interface may have a steeper learning curve for new users.
  • -Some integrations available in Mattermost may not yet exist in Element.

Privacy Winner: Element

Your data stays in the EU and is protected under GDPR, free from US CLOUD Act access.

Feature Comparison

Switching from
Mattermost logo

Mattermost

🇺🇸

Mattermost

VS
Switching to
Element logo

Element

🌍

Element

US Data Storage

Data subject to US CLOUD Act and may be accessed by US authorities

EU Data Protection

Data protected under GDPR with EU-only data residency

Certifications & Compliance

No certifications listed

Open Source
Self-Hostable
ISO 27001
EU-hosted
GDPR Compliant

Reasons to Switch

  • âś“Element uses the Matrix protocol for broader interoperability.
  • âś“End-to-end encryption is enabled by default on all Element plans.
  • âś“Element supports group chats with up to 1000 members, larger than Mattermost.
  • âś“Element's open-source nature allows for community-driven improvements.

Things to Consider

  • !Migration from Mattermost may require significant data transfer effort.
  • !Element's user interface may have a steeper learning curve for new users.
  • !Some integrations available in Mattermost may not yet exist in Element.
Migration difficulty:
Medium
~1-2 days

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Element a good replacement for Mattermost?

Yes, Element is a GDPR-compliant European alternative to Mattermost. It offers similar functionality while ensuring your data stays within EU jurisdiction and is protected under strict European privacy laws.

Is Element GDPR compliant?

Yes, Element is a European company that fully complies with GDPR regulations. Your data is stored in EU data centers and is not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act.

How much does Element cost?

Element offers freemium pricing. Visit their website for current pricing details and to compare plans based on your specific needs.

Where is my data stored with Element?

Element stores data in EU data centers, ensuring compliance with European data protection regulations and keeping your information within EU jurisdiction.

Other EU alternatives to Mattermost

Ready to make the switch to Element?

Take control of your data privacy by switching to an EU-based alternative.

Mattermost vs Element: Complete 2026 Comparison | BuiltInEu | BuiltInEu